Pakistan Commissions First Hangor-Class Submarine in China — A Historic Milestone for Naval Defence

BEIJING — Pakistan officially commissioned its first Hangor-class submarine in China, marking a historic milestone for the Pakistan Navy and further strengthening defence ties between Islamabad and Beijing. President Asif Ali Zardari attended the ceremony in China, calling the induction a "historic milestone" that reflects Pakistan's resolve to maintain credible maritime defence.

Commissioning Ceremony in China

President Asif Ali Zardari, on an official visit to China, attended the commissioning ceremony of the first Hangor-class submarine. The president said that the induction of the advanced submarine was a "historic milestone" for the navy, reflecting Islamabad's resolve to maintain a credible and balanced defence posture.

He stated that Pakistan is fully capable of defending its sovereignty and protecting its maritime interests in the region. The ceremony was also attended by senior military officials from both Pakistan and China, along with Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf.

Technical Specifications and Capabilities

The Hangor-class submarine is widely believed to be based on China's Type 039A design. It is an advanced diesel-electric attack submarine equipped with state-of-the-art technology:

• Crew Capacity: The submarine can carry a crew of 38, with additional capacity for special forces personnel.
• Weapon Systems: It is equipped with torpedoes and advanced anti-ship missiles for maritime strike capabilities.
• Propulsion System: The Hangor-class features air-independent propulsion technology, allowing extended underwater endurance.
• Acquisition Plan: Pakistan has agreed to acquire eight of these submarines, with the final vessels expected to be delivered over the coming years.

Significance of the Hangor Name

Speaking at the ceremony, Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf highlighted the historical significance of the name "Hangor." He noted that a previous Pakistani submarine bearing the same name sank an Indian warship in 1971, marking the first such sinking since World War II. The commissioning of the new Hangor-class submarine represents a continuation of this proud naval legacy.

Strategic Implications

Admiral Ashraf said that disruptions at critical maritime chokepoints are increasingly threatening global trade and energy security, underscoring the need for an advanced navy. He stated that the Hangor-class submarines, equipped with advanced sensors, weapons, and air-independent propulsion systems, would significantly enhance Pakistan's naval capabilities.

• Maritime Security: The submarine will play a vital role in safeguarding Pakistan's maritime interests in the Arabian Sea and beyond.
• Regional Balance: The induction enhances Pakistan's naval deterrence capability in the Indian Ocean region.
• Defence Partnership: The commissioning marks another chapter in the longstanding defence partnership between Pakistan and China.

China-Pakistan Defence Cooperation

The submarine commissioning ceremony was held during President Zardari's official visit to China, highlighting the enduring strategic partnership between the two countries. Both nations have consistently deepened their defence collaboration, with China being a key supplier of military hardware to Pakistan.

The Hangor-class submarine programme is part of a broader defence modernisation effort by Pakistan to maintain a credible deterrent capability in the face of evolving regional security dynamics. The acquisition of advanced submarines also aligns with Pakistan's focus on expanding its naval capabilities to protect trade routes and energy infrastructure.

Regional Context

The induction comes at a time of heightened strategic competition in the Indian Ocean region, with multiple naval powers expanding their presence. Pakistan's investment in submarine technology reflects its commitment to maintaining a balanced and credible defence posture.

• Economic Impact: Secure maritime trade routes are critical for Pakistan's economy, with the majority of its trade passing through the Arabian Sea.
• Strategic Autonomy: The submarine programme supports Pakistan's goal of self-reliance in defence manufacturing through technology transfer agreements.
• International Law: Pakistan remains committed to upholding freedom of navigation and maritime security in accordance with international law.

Outlook

With the commissioning of the first Hangor-class submarine and more vessels to follow, Pakistan is steadily modernising its naval fleet. The combination of advanced technology, experienced personnel, and strong international partnerships positions the Pakistan Navy to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex maritime environment.